Our Teachers

Sarah Sales BA (Hons), LRAD, RAD RTS

Principal of the Upminster School of Dance

Head of Ballet studies

Sarah began her dance journey at the age of four, taking Ballet, Tap, and Modern classes at her local dance school in Crystal Palace. Her deep love and passion for dance soon saw her training every evening and performing regularly in shows and competitions.

At eighteen, Sarah was accepted into the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance, where she completed a three-year degree in the Art and Teaching of Ballet. During her time there, she was mentored by leading performers and educators in the field. She graduated with a BA (Hons) and became a Licentiate of the RAD.

With over 20 years of teaching experience, Sarah has specialised in classical ballet both in the UK and abroad, including a period working in the Caribbean. In London, she worked as a freelance dance educator, teaching in numerous dance schools, nurseries, and educational institutions.

In 2013, Sarah became Principal of the Upminster School of Dance. In 2025, she entered into a joint partnership with Fern, marking an exciting new chapter for the school.

Fern Joanne Reilly AISTD

Principal of the Upminster School of Dance

Head of Modern and Tap

Fern’s passion for dance began at the age of five at Anthony Clifford's Dance Studio, where she trained in Tap, Ballet, Modern, Latin, and Ballroom until she was 16. She then continued her studies at South Essex College, earning a Level 3 Diploma in Musical Theatre, before discovering her true love for choreography and teaching.

Returning to Anthony Clifford's Dance Studio, Fern achieved her ISTD DDE Qualification in Tap and Modern, completing all of her ISTD exams with distinction, including her Advanced Two Tap and Modern. With over nine years of experience teaching students across Essex and London, she has gained a reputation for creating choreography for major competitions and auditions, achieving outstanding success with her students.

In addition to her extensive performance and teaching experience, Fern also holds a Level 5 Diploma in Teaching and Education. Alongside her specialism in Tap and Modern, Fern teaches a variety of genres including Jazz, Contemporary, and Musical Theatre.

As a dedicated educator, Fern is passionate about helping each student develop their full potential by combining strong technique with expressive performance skills. Now stepping into her new role as Principal at the Upminster School of Dance, Fern is excited to continue inspiring dancers of all ages to find joy, confidence, and creativity through dance.

I have been a student at the Upminster School of Dance for over a decade and I have loved working through the grades and performing in shows. Ms Sarah is an incredible teacher and has guided my progress with expertise and kindness allowing me to grow as a dancer and person. I am very grateful to the whole teaching cohort that has facilitated so many amazing experiences as well as nurturing friendships and new skills

Isla

A fantastic place to learn ballet and tap! The instructors are experienced and incredibly supportive.

★★★★★

★★★★★